Failure to Provide Dignified Care and Proper Grooming
Penalty
Summary
Two residents were not treated in a manner that promoted their dignity and quality of life. One resident, who was cognitively impaired and dependent on staff for activities of daily living, was observed by his representative to have been brought out of his room with uncombed hair, twisted clothing, and socks put on incorrectly. The representative also reported that the certified nurse aides assigned to assist the resident displayed unprofessional behavior, such as rolling their eyes and making dismissive comments during the transfer process. Documentation confirmed that a grievance was filed regarding this incident, and the facility's own records indicated that the resident was not properly groomed or dressed when brought out to visit with family. Another resident, who was cognitively intact and required staff assistance with bathing and grooming, was found to have visible, unshaven chin hairs of varying lengths after a documented shower. The resident stated that she was supposed to be shaved on shower days but was neither shaved nor asked if she wanted to be shaved during her most recent shower. A certified medication aide confirmed that residents should be offered shaving with each shower and acknowledged that the resident's appearance was not consistent with this expectation. Both incidents were in direct violation of the facility's policy, which requires that all residents be treated with respect and dignity, and that care be provided in a manner that maintains or enhances their quality of life. The failure to ensure proper grooming and respectful treatment during care activities led to a deficiency in upholding residents' rights to dignity and self-determination.